ROKMC Vietnam Tailor modifications

[Haebyeongdae]

Hello, I just wanted to share some period photos of tailor modifications done by Korean Marines serving in Vietnam. The ROKMC are known to have commonly tailored uniforms and equipment.

 

the first modification and probably the easiest to spot in photos are tailored short sleeves: 

This famous photo shows tailored sleeves and an extra pocket 

 

 

 

Another interesting item that was tailored were Flak vests. USMC m55s and US army M52a and M69s were tailored to be covered in their frogskin fabric made from damaged uniforms. Also, US Army M52a and M69  flak vests were tailored to appear more like the USMC M55 flak vests by the addition of rifle chords, lower pockets, and a zipper front with snap cover. 

 

Next up, trousers were also tailored into shorts. 
 

 

Helmet covers were also modified. Korean made frogskin helmet covers and US made Mitchell helmet covers had the flaps cut and hemmed where an elastic band was added to achieve a tighter fit. This modification has been found on all helmet covers that were actually brought back from use in Vietnam showing it was apparently a very common modification. Period photos also show this modification. 
 

 

 

 

here the edge of where the cover was tailored and sewn over an elastic band can be seen. 

Equipment was also completely made from frogskin material from damaged uniforms. This photo shows an M79 bandolier made of frogskin camouflage. Other items such as caps, boonie hats, and bags were made from uniform material as well. 

[DoubleCanister]

Damaged ROKMC M1952a and later 3/4 collar vests were collected and sent to the USMC 3rd Force Service Regiment to be refurbished in the same program that produced the USMC "3rd pattern" M1955s.